SRC-SEW S.B. 481 77(R)BILL ANALYSIS Senate Research CenterS.B. 481 By: Duncan State Affairs 5/28/2001 Enrolled DIGEST AND PURPOSE Under current law, most state agencies that require routine regulatory reports do not, for various reasons, accept electronic filings. S.B. 481 requires the Department of Information Resources to advise and consult with state agencies to determine opportunities for allowing persons to electronically file required information with agencies, while identifying costs associated with electronic reporting. RULEMAKING AUTHORITY This bill does not expressly grant any additional rulemaking authority to a state officer, institution, or agency. SECTION BY SECTION ANALYSIS SECTION 1. Amends Chapter 2054C, Government Code, by adding Section 2054.063, as follows: Sec. 2054.063. ELECTRONIC REPORTING TO STATE AGENCIES. Requires the Department of Information Resources (department) to advise and consult with state agencies to assess opportunities for allowing persons to electronically file with an agency any information the agency requires. Requires the department to identify the cost of implementing an electronic reporting procedure and any barriers to electronic reporting. Authorizes the department to perform certain stated functions. SECTION 2. Requires the department to make recommendations to the legislature about opportunities for electronic reporting in state government not later than September 1, 2002. SECTION 3. Effective date: September 1, 2001.